As International Women’s Day comes around, we reflect on the female figures who inspire us, uplift us and lead the way for women worldwide.
In line with this year’s theme to #breakthebias we wanted to spotlight some of the women taking lead roles in business. Only 32% of companies in the UK are female-led, but this number is ever-increasing thanks to the influence and impact of the amazing women in this list.
Dame Julia Unwin, Chair of Smart Data Foundry
Recently appointed Chair of Smart Data Foundry, Dame Julia Unwin is making waves in the fintech industry. Using financial data to address societal issues and create positive change, Dame Julia is paving the way for women in fintech.
Prior to this Dame Julia was the Chief Executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and held a variety of senior positions in the voluntary and corporate sector. Her accomplishments are vast!
Sheri Friers, CEO of The List
CEO of The List, a what’s on guide for arts and entertainment events in the UK, Sheri has been described as one of “life’s all-rounders”, and it’s not hard to see why. A talent in digital and print media, sponsorship, advertising, sales and e-commerce, Sheri defies the saying “Jack of all trades and master of none”.
Having worked at The List for 20 years, Sheri has made her mark in what has been described as a “gentleman’s profession”.
Shona McCarthy, CEO of Edinburgh Festival Fringe
CEO of the world’s largest open-access arts festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Shona McCarthy is a woman to admire. Taking on the mighty role in 2016, Shona lived up to her brave reputation, undaunted by an event that has previously hosted up to 3,314 shows.
Since her appointment, Shona has championed greater diversity and inclusivity both in the acts on show and public participation. We love to see it!
Kylie Reid, founder of EGG
What started as a local Facebook group has gone on to become Scotland’s largest online and offline platform for women, with a community of over 65,000.
Kylie Reid, the figure behind the business’ success, was motivated to set up her online platform, egg, to connect with other women in the city back in 2014. Since then, she has gone from strength to strength and more recently, Kylie has secured a space for Egg & Co at 51 George Street. Her immersive hub includes a female co-working space and is host to a number of female-led, sustainable brands.
Did you know Represent is an award-winning female-led business? Find out more about our team and how we can support your business here.